JANUARY 31, 2001

Raikkonen could be kicked out of F1

SAUBER new-boy Kimi Raikkonen could be kicked out of Formula One after the fourth round of the series in Imola in April, said a report in Swiss magazine Motorsport Aktuell.

Team-boss Peter Sauber said in an interview that the 21-year-old Finn's super-licence gave him permission to enter the first four Grands Prix of the season -- after which the FIA would review the situation.

"I have accepted that," Sauber said. "I understand (FIA president Max) Mosley's arguments. However, we believe Kimi is up to it. We are convinced, based on our experience up to now, that he will perform well."

Raikkonen has impressed in testing as he prepares to make his Grand Prix debut in Melbourne, Australia on March 4.